“‘No current car industry player is likely to win this battle against the invaders from outside without friends. To achieve and assert technological leadership, one has to adapt a new way of thinking in terms of sharing and combining strength. My investment in Daimler reflects this vision,’ Li said.”

In case you’re not clear what that means:

“Only two or three manufactures will likely survive in the auto industry going forward, a source familiar with Li’s thinking told Reuters, prompting Geely to seek access to carmakers with a technological edge.”

The line between Li Shufu and Geely is a little fuzzy here, as CNBC reports that Li made the share purchases, but Geely now has access to Daimler’s technology.